New York's Popular Vineyard Hosts Fall Wine Festival with Tours, Music, and Grape Stomping

A Legacy of Winemaking and Family Tradition

For seven generations, the Hunt family has farmed just outside of Branchport, a small and peaceful New York getaway located at the top of West Branch Keuka Lake. The roots of their vineyard stretch back to 1830 when their great-great-great uncle, Josiah Prentiss, became one of the first to grow grapes commercially in the area. In 1902, the family planted their first vineyards, some of which still stand today. This marked the beginning of what would eventually become Hunt Country Vineyards.

Despite facing challenges such as Prohibition and the closure of Taylor Wine Company, with whom they once sold their grapes, the family persevered. In 1981, they began producing and selling their own wine, solidifying their place in the region’s wine industry. Over the past decade, the farm has transitioned to solar power and organic farming, becoming one of the most popular vineyards in New York.

In March 2025, the owners of Hunt Country Vineyards announced that they would be returning to farming and selling their grapes upon the retirement of Art and Joyce Hunt. This decision means the vineyard will stop producing its own wine and close its tasting room. This marks the end of an era, making the 37th Annual Harvest Festival on October 4, 2025, a must-attend event.

The festival will offer a wide range of activities, including tastings, tours, live music, games, grape picking, and the beloved tradition of grape stomping—an ancient method of crushing grapes by foot to release their juice. Attendees can also enjoy food, craft beverages, and other local offerings.

What to Expect at the Harvest Festival

If you haven’t visited Hunt Country Vineyards before, this is your chance to experience it at its best. The closest airports are Elmira Corning Regional Airport and Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport, both about 60 miles away. New York City is just under five hours away by car. No matter which route you take, you’ll pass through some of the most charming towns in the Finger Lakes region, known for their scenic beauty, wineries, and waterfront activities.

The festival will feature a variety of wines, including a bubbly rosé, a unique sparkling cabernet franc, Cayuga white, riesling, vignoles, blaufränkisch, and dessert wines. Reservations are recommended for the flight of five wines. Non-alcoholic drinks and beers from local breweries like Climbing Bines Hop Farm & Brewery and LyonSmith Brewing Company will also be available.

In addition to wine, guests can enjoy small bites from the tasting room or grab a burger from the Lake Life Catering Pop-Up Burger Stand, which offers classic and specialty options with chips and a pickle.

Entertainment and Activities

Live music will be provided by Ryan Johnson and HaNna PK, while Suzanne Hunt will lead a Sustainability Tour highlighting the vineyard’s commitment to organic farming, solar energy, and composting. A special presentation by Braddock Bay Raptor Research will add an educational element to the festival. Traditional games like bocce ball, croquet, and horseshoes will be available, along with the opportunity to pick your own grapes and participate in grape stomping.

Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out, the Harvest Festival promises something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the legacy of Hunt Country Vineyards and experience the charm of the Finger Lakes region.